Kentucky

Burns v. Associated Press in Kentucky Law

How Burns v. Associated Press applies in Kentucky: state-specific rules, key cases, and bar exam notes for Remedies.

State Approach

Kentucky follows the same general principles of tort law and remedies as outlined in Burns v. Associated Press, emphasizing protection against the wrongful appropriation of an individual's likeness for commercial purposes. The state also considers the balance between freedom of expression and the right to privacy.

State Rule
In Kentucky, the appropriation of a person's likeness for commercial purposes without consent is actionable under common law tort principles, providing a remedy for damages including emotional harm and financial losses.
Significant State Cases

Fisher v. KRS

Held that the unauthorized use of an individual's likeness for commercial gain constitutes a tort under Kentucky law.

Doe v. Louisville & N.R. Co.

Recognized that emotional distress claims can arise from violations of privacy, including unauthorized commercial use of an individual’s likeness.

Harris v. McMurray

Addressed emotional damages in cases of likeness appropriation, affirming damages for emotional distress and reputational harm.

Comparison to Federal Law

Kentucky’s approach mirrors the federal tort law principles regarding the right to publicity, which also stresses the protection against unauthorized commercial exploitation. However, Kentucky emphasizes emotional harm in a broader context compared to federal standards that may focus primarily on economic damages.

Bar Exam Note

Familiarity with the principles from Burns v. Associated Press and Kentucky's subsequent rulings is crucial for the Kentucky bar exam, particularly in the remedies section where privacy torts are tested.

Practice Pointers
  • Ensure consent is obtained for the use of an individual’s likeness in any commercial context.
  • Be mindful of the emotional impact of actions that infringe upon a person’s privacy and intellectual property rights.
  • Understand the differing standards that may apply between federal and state remedies for privacy rights.

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